Derry GAA has unveiled its plans for a full player academy at Owenbeg.

The training complex, near Dungiven, has already been slated as the Oak Leafers' alternative county ground, and Derry top brass have now revealed their plans for a proper academy at the facility, where high-performance programmes will be hosted as part of player development.

The facility is set to include: a fully-equipped and staffed 2,500 sq ft strength and conditioning suite; physiotherapy, medical and hydrotherapy units; a sand-based pitch and new artificial 3G pitch; conference rooms; and full canteen facilities.

The vast majority of the project is going to be funded by Club Derry. County Board chairman John Keenan reveals:

"There's a similar project at the SINI centre at the University of Ulster. This will be our version and will be the finishing school for our pupils.

"We're in a great position due to the foresight of the original finance committee of the early '90s, led by Johnny Burke. The baton is now passed to Club Derry. I am happy to announce that they are fully behind our plans for the site.

"The final piece is to help young players take the next step, to fully realise their potential. That's what this academy is for.

"We live in tough economic times but I have no doubt that there exists the goodwill and determination within Derry to make this a reality." Tweet

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